Carson Loftin secured his fourth dominant victory of the season at Tri-County Speedway, proving to be the standout performer at the SMART Modified Tour Playoff party on October 9, 2026. Loftin, who has been statistically the most consistent driver despite having only seven starts, managed to hold off intense competition as drivers scrambled for crucial points in the tight championship battle.
The race featured several dramatic moments, including a stage caution that prompted drivers to pit for new right rear tires. After an initial lead change within 11 laps, the action intensified when Cayden Lapcevich worked his way up to second place. A caution on lap 47, caused by a spinning Bryce Bailey, set the stage for a fierce duel between Loftin and Lapcevich, who traded positions for three straight laps.
The final sprint to the checkered flag was set up by another caution involving Brandon Ward. Loftin successfully held off the challenge from Lapcevich, taking the win. The top four finishers were Loftin, Lapcevich, Carter McMurray, and Danny Bohn. Bohn managed to secure fourth place, while McMurray finished third.
The rest of the Playoff field also saw action, with Bohn finishing fifth, Jake Crum sixth, Burt Myers seventh, and Ryan Newman eighth. With the top four points leaders tied, the standings remain incredibly tight as the series heads toward the championship race at North Wilkesboro on October 17.
Source: Short Track Scene